Pakistan has walked a fine diplomatic line in recent years with the United States, regarding predator drone attacks within its borders. To save domestic face, the Pakistani government has reasserted its sovereignty, and claimed noncompliance with any U.S. military activities within its borders. Nonetheless, the targeted assassinations continue, sometimes within mere hours of each other.
Are the attacks tolerated? Is there a shadow agreement enabling behind-the-scenes cooperation, but acknowledging the ongoing practice of public denial? With over $9.5 billion in military aid flowing to Pakistan from the U.S. within the next five years, this kind of an arrangement makes more sense, and is bolstered by recent news that former military ruler Pervez Musharraf gave approval for US drones to make surveillance flights over the country during his administration.